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The Debate
The Debate is our home for the best opinions from around Asia. Whether it is negotiating with Iran, responding to North Korean provocations, discussing Japan's looming demographic issues, or considering the new balance of power in the Asia-Pacific, some of the region's leading thinkers offer their take.
Australia’s Relationship With India Is Concerning
By Dechlan Brennan
Canberra’s concern about China is no excuse for ignoring New Delhi’s rights abuses.
The Indo-Pacific Exposes the Regionalisms of ‘Global’ Britain
By Oliver Turner and Luke Stephens
While Global Britain is touted as an opportunity to “shape the world of the future,” it is heavily reliant on ties to the past.
Where Are ‘New’ Uzbekistan’s Promised Reforms?
By Akzam Turgunov
The reelection of Uzbekistan’s president was a foregone conclusion. The real question is: Where are the promised reforms?
Climate Change Through the Lens of Bangladesh
By Sheikh Hasina
Bangladesh is especially affected by negative effects of climate change and can function as role model to the developed and developing world.
A Rohingya Remembers Myanmar’s Brutal Crackdown in 2017
“I fear for the future of my community and country under Myanmar’s dehumanizing, segregated system, but I see a chance for change.”
USS Connecticut’s Collision Proves the Need for China-US Crisis Management
By Jin Kai and Cheng Jing
The incident highlights several potential crisis points, from militarization in the South China Sea to lack of transparent communication.
Don’t Let China Dictate US and Indian Policy on Sri Lanka
By Madura Rasaratnam and Mario Arulthas
The U.S. and India cannot advance their interests in Sri Lanka by appeasing Colombo.
Action Needed Now to Address the Humanitarian Catastrophe in Afghanistan
By Youssof Ghafoorzai
With winter approaching, the human tragedy that has befallen the people of Afghanistan will only worsen. Urgent action is needed.
Justice for the Uyghurs: What the US Can Do
By Abduweli Ayup and Yonah Diamond
The U.S. can take some immediate, common-sense steps holding the CCP accountable for its transnational repression and offering effective humanitarian assistance for the Uyghurs.
Taiwan to Host 1st WorldPride in East Asia: Why That’s Important
By Jason Bartlett
Kaohsiung beat out Washington D.C. to host WorldPride 2025.
How Universal Basic Income Can Advance the United States’ China Strategy
By Scott Singer and Ben Silvian
The infrastructure bill is a good start, but the U.S. must go much further in “domestic renewal” to truly compete with China.
What Peng Shuai’s Story Tells Us About #MeToo in China
By Lü Pin
Peng’s story is an example of a woman sharing her story and demanding justice. That is what has kept #MeToo growing strong since the beginning, despite heavy censorship.